Chevy Leads with Most Top-Ranked Models in 2012 APEAL Study

When it comes to pleasing new car buyers after their purchase, no other auto brand has more leading models than Chevy, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study. After more than 74,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2012 models weighed in on what they like about their vehicles, three Chevrolet models rose to the top of their respective segments. The 2012 Chevy Sonic, Avalanche and Volt received accolades in the Sub Compact Car, Large Pickup and Compact Car categories, respectively.

Besting traditional gas-only competitors for the second year in a row, the electric Chevy Volt’s impressive rating in the 2012 APEAL Study indicated that buyer remorse was far from its owners’ minds. As one might expect thanks to its rating of 95 MPGe in the city, the Volt received the top ranking of “among the best” in the Owner-Reported Fuel Economy category. However, the car also received top scores in the remaining categories as well, including Overall Performance and Design, Features and Instrument Panel, Style, Performance, and Comfort.

“The Chevy Volt can compete against gas-only vehicles in every capacity, and the results of the APEAL Study makes that clear,” said Robert Phillipo, general manager of Balise Chevy of Warwick, a Rhode Island Chevy dealership. “It’s the perfect car for local drivers, because they can zip around town using only electric power, and then use the gas generator for longer weekend trips around New England without having to look for a recharging station.”

July sales showed the Chevy Volt continuing to catch on with buyers, as the model had its second-best sales month ever. Moving 1,849 vehicles in July for an increase of more than 1,000 percent year-over-year, the Volt sold more units than the Nissan Leaf and Prius Plug-in combined. U.S. Chevrolet dealers have sold 10,666 Volt vehicles so far this year, a significant uptick compared to the 2,870 units sold in the same period in 2011.

While the Volt, Leaf and Prius Plug-in are all electrified vehicles, there are differences in their electric ranges. The Volt is able to travel up to 35 miles on only electricity before switching to gas, while the Prius Plug-in can travel just 11 miles solely on electric power before changing over. Though the all-electric Nissan Leaf can travel up to 100 miles on electric charge, it does not have a backup fuel engine to increase range further on longer trips.

The Chevy Volt is powered by a Voltec electric-drive system, a lithium-ion battery and a 1.4-liter gas-powered range extender, giving drivers a combined range of up to 375 miles. Meanwhile, technology options like the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and a front and rear park assist system keep the Volt competitive with other vehicles in its class when it comes to amenities.

“Once people try the Volt, they love it not only for its fuel efficiency, but also for its style, comfort and functionality,” added Phillipo. “Rhode Island drivers don’t have to sacrifice the conveniences they’re accustomed to for great mileage, and the Volt is proving that to more and more buyers.”

About Balise Chevrolet of Warwick:

Balise Chevrolet of Warwick is committed to helping Rhode Island Chevy fans find the vehicle they need at the right price. A member of the Balise Auto Group, the Warwick, R.I. Chevy dealer has a large inventory of new and used Chevrolet vehicles, including the Chevy Silverado, Cruze and Camaro. Plus, their team of factory-trained technicians performs expert Chevy repairs and maintenance at the dealership’s state-of-the-art service center to keep their customers’ vehicles running in top condition. Visit Balise Chevrolet at their showroom at 1338 Post Rd. in Warwick, browse their online inventory at www.balisechevroletofwarwick.com, or call them at 877-214-6563. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BaliseChevroletWarwick.